As proud bunny parents, we know grooming is more than just keeping your fluffball camera-ready—it's key to their health and happiness! Whether you're hopping into rabbit care for the first time or you're a seasoned paw-parent, our 10 rabbit grooming tips will help make your bun feel fabulous and possibly even enjoy being groomed!
Rabbit grooming is so much more than just fluff maintenance—it’s a crucial part of keeping your bun happy and healthy! Regular grooming helps prevent fur blockages (because, unlike cats, bunnies can’t cough up hairballs), keeps their skin in tip-top shape, and reduces shedding around the house.
Plus, it's the perfect time to check those teeth, nails, and ears for any potential issues. Grooming also strengthens the bond between you and your rabbit, turning it into quality one-on-one time that your bun will (eventually) love! In short, a well-groomed rabbit is a happy, healthy, and extra-cuddly one!
Bunny Grooming Tips
1. Create a Calm Grooming Space
Rabbits are naturally curious, but they can also be pretty nervous when it comes to grooming. Before you begin, set up a calm and comfortable space where your bunny can feel safe.
A quiet room with a non-slip surface works best. Lay down a soft towel or mat so they can get cozy and relaxed, which will make grooming much easier for both of you!
2. Brush Regularly—Keep Your Rabbits Coat Smooth
Brushing is a must for every bunny. Rabbits groom themselves, but they can ingest fur during shedding seasons, which may lead to blockages. Long-haired breeds like Angoras or Lionheads require more frequent brushing, sometimes daily, while short-haired breeds may need a brush 1-2 times a week or so.
Dealing with household allergies? Regular grooming and brushing can help! Read more: Are Rabbits Hypoallergenic? Find out here!
Use a rabbit-safe comb to gently remove loose fur, starting from their back and working your way down. Bonus: Brushing time is a great bonding moment!
3. Use Treats While Grooming as Positive Reinforcement
Grooming time can be a bit stressful for some rabbits, so using tasty bunny treats can help turn it into a positive experience. Offer a small, healthy treat like a piece of banana or a favorite pellet when they behave calmly or sit still during grooming. They'll start to associate grooming with their favorite snacks, making future sessions much easier. (Because no-bunny can say no to a healthy treat bribe, right?)
4. Check Teeth During Grooming
As you may already know, rabbits' teeth never stop growing, so regular dental checkups are essential. While grooming, gently check your bunny’s teeth to make sure they’re aligned and not overgrown.
Overgrown teeth can cause discomfort and make it hard for your bunny to eat. If you notice any issues, like difficulty chewing or visible misalignment, consult your vet.
Rabbits with tooth issues may show signs of discomfort. Here are some major ones to watch for:
Drooling or Wet Fur Around the Mouth – This can indicate pain or difficulty chewing.
Decreased Appetite/Weight Loss – If your rabbit is eating much less than usual, avoiding hard foods like hay or pellets, but still eating softer treats, it could be due to tooth pain.
Excessive Dropping of Food – If they’re frequently dropping food while eating, it may mean their teeth are misaligned.
Teeth Grinding – Loud grinding (distinct from soft purring-like grinding) is often a sign of discomfort.
Swollen Face or Jaw – Swelling in the jaw area can be a sign of an infection or abscess from tooth problems.
Changes in Behavior – Lethargy, irritability, or hiding more than usual can also indicate that something’s off, including dental pain.
Remember, if you notice any of these signs, it's best to visit a vet for a thorough check-up to keep your bunny's teeth healthy!
5. Nail Care is a Must
Those cute little paws can get sharp...ouch! Keeping your rabbit’s nails trimmed is important for their comfort and health. Overgrown nails can break or cause pain when your bunny hops around. You’ll need a good pair of rabbit nail clippers/scissors and a steady hand.
If you're new to this, start by clipping just the very tips, and please don’t hesitate to ask your vet for a demo if you’re nervous.
Remember to avoid the quick. The quick is the pinkish area inside the nail where blood vessels and nerves are located. If you accidentally clip it, it will bleed and cause your rabbit a lot of pain. For light-colored nails, the quick is easier to see. However, for darker nails, consider using a flashlight and only clip just a small amount at a time to avoid cutting too deep.
6. Rabbit Ears Need Love Too
Rabbits have adorable floppy or perky ears, but they also need a little TLC. Check your bunny’s ears for any wax buildup, redness, or signs of infection. Gently wipe the outer ear with a damp cotton pad if needed. If your bunny has particularly fluffy ears, be extra mindful of debris that could get caught inside.
7. Keep an Eye on Their Skin
While brushing, check your bunny’s skin for any redness, dryness, or irritation. Dandruff or scabs could be signs of a skin condition or parasites like mites. If you notice anything unusual, contact your vet. Healthy skin should look clean and free from irritation, so regular checks during grooming are key!
8. Hairballs: Know the Risk for Rabbits
Unlike cats, rabbits can’t cough up hairballs. During shedding seasons, rabbits can ingest a lot of fur while grooming themselves, which could lead to dangerous blockages in their digestive system. Regular brushing, especially during the spring and fall, helps minimize the amount of fur they ingest. Offer plenty of fresh hay (which promotes healthy digestion!) and water to help prevent hairball problems.
9. Be Gentle with Sensitive Spots
Some bunnies have areas they’re more sensitive about, like their bellies or feet. Always be gentle when grooming, especially around these spots. If your bunny gets fussy or anxious, pause for a minute, offer a treat, and pet them in a calming way. Building trust is key to making grooming a smooth experience!
10. Stay Consistent—Make Grooming Part of the Routine
Consistency is the name of the game when it comes to rabbit grooming. Regular sessions—whether brushing, checking their teeth, or trimming nails—help your bunny get used to the routine and will keep their coat, skin, and overall health in tip-top shape!
Grooming isn't just about looks—it's crucial for your rabbit's well-being. Regular brushing prevents fur blockages, trimming nails helps with mobility, and checking teeth ensures your bunny is able to munch away happily. By keeping your bunny’s grooming routine regular and enjoyable, you’ll have a happy, healthy companion by your side! Remember, when in doubt, be sure to reach out to your exotic pet veterinarian. Happy grooming, bunny parents! 🐰✨
We are not veterinarians, and none of our information should be construed as veterinary advice.
Before adding any new product, please consult your exotic veterinarian. If your pet is acting unwell and you have concerns for their well being, please contact your vet immediately.
